Sleep Actigraphy in Postural Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS)

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We propose to use actigraphy (measured by activity watches) as a tool to quantify sleep disturbances in patients with orthostatic intolerance compared with healthy control subjects. In this pilot study, we will test the null hypothesis (Ho) that there are no differences in the sleep quality between patients with orthostatic intolerance and healthy control subjects.

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Ages Eligible for Study:

18 Years to 65 Years (Adult)

Sexes Eligible for Study:

All

Accepts Healthy Volunteers:

Yes

Sampling Method:

Non-Probability Sample

Study Population

Patients diagnosed with the Postural Tachycardia Syndrome. The criteria include:

an increase in heart rate on standing (from supine) of >30 bpm

in the setting of symptoms of cerebral hypoperfusion that are worse with standing and better when recumbent

the symptoms are daily or almost daily

the symptoms are chronic (lasting greater than 6 motnsh)

Criteria

Inclusion Criteria:

Diagnosed with orthostatic intolerance by the Vanderbilt Autonomic Dysfunction Center

Control subjects will be free of orthostatic intolerance and other major medical problems, free of medications during the study

Age between 18-65 years

Male and female subjects are eligible.

Able and willing to provide informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

Overt cause for postural tachycardia (such as acute dehydration)

Self-report of pregnancy

Inability to give, or withdrawal of, informed consent

Other factors which in the investigator's opinion would prevent the subject from completing the protocol